The Vespa roared into the alley behind Serayah’s apartment, Lawrose killing the engine before the kickstand even hit the pavement. He didn't wait. He bolted up the stairs, his heart hammering a frantic rhythm against his ribs. He burst through the door, nearly taking out a floor lamp in the process.
"Lock the door!" he shouted, gasping for air. "Serayah! Lock the deadbolt! Put the chain on!"
Serayah came running from the kitchen, a spatula in hand. "What is wrong with you? Did someone steal your scooter?"
Giselle emerged from the hallway, looking pale and exhausted. "Lawrose? What happened?"
Lawrose dropped the bag of groceries on the floor—almond milk leaking onto the rug—and grabbed Giselle by the shoulders. He was shaking. "He’s here. He’s out there. The big man. Your father in law.
